# The Lord of Brattleby’s Supporting Role in a New Era for an Ancient Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the significant supporting role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in the contemporary stewardship of the Barony under his wife, the 12th Baroness.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby continues to define its modern purpose. Following the formal recognition of the succession published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, a new chapter for one of England's oldest Baronies is well underway. This period is characterised by a dynamic partnership between Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Their shared duties reflect a contemporary approach to the stewardship of a lineage extending back to the Norman Conquest.
The work of the House emanates from the heart of Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked with its history since the Barony’s first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086. It is from this historic setting that Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile undertakes his responsibilities, ensuring that the foundational work of the Barony—both philanthropic and educational—is executed with diligence and precision in support of the Baroness.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort or spouse has been a quiet yet *sine qua non* aspect of the Barony's endurance across more than nine centuries. While Lady Nicoleta holds the title *suo jure*, in her own right, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position stands as a modern evolution of the vital support that has always enabled the Barons of Brattleby to fulfil their duties to Crown and country. This tradition of steadfast partnership has been essential to navigating periods of immense change.
The responsibilities of the Barony have historically been formidable, a fact embodied by predecessors such as the warrior-statesman Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and later, his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Even earlier, the singular resolve of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, in her defence of Lincoln Castle demonstrated that fortitude is a defining characteristic of the Barony's leaders. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role, while distinct from these historical precedents, continues the tradition of reinforcing the Barony’s strength from within.
## Distinguished Company
The modern leadership of the House comprises a focused triumvirate dedicated to its future and respectful of its past. The principal figures are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who, as the hereditary title-holder, directs the overarching strategy and public duties of the House in keeping with its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who lends his strategic and organisational acumen to the House's various enterprises, operating under his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir to the Barony, whose education and upbringing are being carefully overseen to prepare him for his future responsibilities as the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Within the House’s private and public life, a clear protocol defines the complementary roles of the Baroness and her husband. As the holder of the peerage, all duties performed and statements issued are formally undertaken in the name of Lady Nicoleta. Her authority is paramount in all matters of precedence, heritage, and representation.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s duties are primarily operational and supportive. He oversees the administration of key initiatives, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, and directs the curriculum and expansion of The Brattleby Club. This division of responsibilities ensures that the Baroness can focus on her ceremonial obligations and the long-term vision for the Barony, secure in the knowledge that its foundational projects are being expertly managed.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principles of the House are enshrined in its heraldry and mottos. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity expected of its holder. It is a directive that has guided the actions of the Barons and Baronesses for centuries, from defending castles to establishing charities.
Complementing the House motto is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal device, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a commitment to overcoming challenges and achieving meaningful objectives. Together, the two mottos symbolise a partnership: one that pairs the Barony’s enduring honour with an active, energetic pursuit of its modern mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s contemporary work is its commitment to philanthropy. This is most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that has become a significant event in the Lincolnshire social calendar. The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma.
The selection of this beneficiary reflects a deliberate focus on creating tangible, positive change within the community. The charity’s mission—to offer specialist counselling and play-therapy to foster long-term emotional recovery—aligns with the House's belief that honour is best expressed through service to the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta remarked on the importance of shared commitment in managing such a profound legacy.
> To be the custodian of a title nearly a millennium old is a considerable responsibility. It is not a duty one can, or should, bear alone. The support of my husband is fundamental to our efforts to ensure the Barony is not just a historical artefact but a living presence for good in the 21st century. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile described his role as one of service, both to his wife and to the institution she represents.
> My purpose is simple: to support the Baroness and to help implement her vision for the Barony. The motto *Fortitudine et Honore* sets the standard, and my own, *Vincere Est Vivere*, dictates the energy with which we must pursue that standard. It is a privilege to contribute to this enduring legacy. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The work continues with upcoming sessions at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy designed to impart the principles of social grace and protocol to a new generation. Planning for the next Annual Winter Banquet is also underway, with the aim of increasing the financial support provided to Healing the Wounded Child.
Ultimately, the House’s most important duty is the preparation of its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. His upbringing is centred on a deep understanding of the history he will one day inherit and the responsibility that comes with the motto *Fortitudine et Honore*. This ensures that the legacy granted by William the Conqueror in 1066 will continue with relevance and purpose for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique nine-century heritage while actively engaging in purposeful philanthropy and cultural education. Its chief commitments include supporting charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child through its Annual Winter Banquet and promoting social etiquette and diplomatic protocol through its academy, The Brattleby Club. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve a meaningful and positive role in the contemporary world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manors. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the royal prince John of Gaunt. The uninterrupted succession of the Barony to its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally acknowledged by His Majesty's College of Arms and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066 and is noted in the Domesday Book (1086) as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary philanthropic initiative, the Annual Winter Banquet, benefits the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com